Palm Springs Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Palm Springs

Renting a car in Palm Springs offers travellers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, perfect for families and adventure seekers, or immerse yourself in culture at the Palm Springs Art Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the scenic beauty of Indian Canyon, all accessible from your vehicle. Having a car also makes it convenient to navigate popular neighbourhoods like Downtown Palm Springs, Baristo, and Midtown, where you can find numerous attractions including the Palm Springs Convention Center. This convenience is especially beneficial for families managing luggage or those with specific travel plans. Whether you are looking to enjoy outdoor experiences, cultural sites, or city-themed adventures, a rental car enhances your travel experience in and around Palm Springs, allowing you to create a personalised itinerary without the constraints of public transportation. Enjoy the local scenery and attractions comfortably and efficiently with the ease of a rental vehicle.

Most popular car rentals in Palm Springs

• Standard SUV: This car type accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for couples, families, or groups. The spacious interior provides comfort for longer drives, while its robust design is perfect for exploring the varied terrain around Palm Springs.
• Compact SUV: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the Compact SUV comfortably fits 5 travellers and handles up to 3 medium suitcases. This car option strikes a great balance between size and fuel efficiency, allowing for easy navigation through Palm Springs while providing ample space for your belongings.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for families, couples, or small groups, the Midsize SUV accommodates 5 travellers and offers room for up to 3 large suitcases. This car type is designed for those looking for extra luggage space without sacrificing comfort, making it an excellent choice for longer trips in and around Palm Springs.

Top rated car suppliers in Palm Springs

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice for travellers in Palm Springs, known for its friendly service and overall customer satisfaction rating of 7.4 out of 10. With one rental location in the area, Alamo provides a selection of well-maintained vehicles, including the highly sought-after Midsize SUV and Compact SUV. Customers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and adjusting their itineraries while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Palm Springs.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental also holds a strong position among car rental suppliers in Palm Springs, featuring one convenient location. Renowned for its friendly service, Thrifty is a great option for those looking for a hassle-free experience. Most customers opt for the Midsize SUV and Compact SUV, enjoying the flexibility these vehicles offer for getting around the city and its attractions at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget stands out with two rental locations in Palm Springs, providing ample options for pick-up and drop-off. This supplier is particularly popular for its range of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs being the most frequently booked. The combination of competitive rates and convenient locations makes Budget a solid choice for tourists looking to explore all that Palm Springs has to offer.

Where to stay in Palm Springs

• Downtown Palm Springs: Downtown Palm Springs is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor experiences. It is home to attractions such as the Palm Springs Convention Center and the Palm Springs Art Museum, both of which are within close proximity. Visitors can also enjoy the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, ideal for adventure seekers. The area features numerous dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a perfect base for exploring the local culture and landmarks.
• Canyon Corridor: Canyon Corridor is a picturesque neighbourhood that offers outdoor activities and family-oriented experiences. This area is renowned for its golf courses and urban parks, with highlights like the Indian Canyon, which provides stunning scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. The Palm Springs Convention Center and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway are also easily accessible, enhancing the cultural and adventurous offerings of the region. Dining options are available, making it a great choice for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Uptown Design District: Uptown Design District is an eclectic neighbourhood famous for its outdoor and adventure activities, ideal for families. Key attractions include Ruth Hardy Park, which is perfect for enjoying the outdoors, and the Palm Springs Convention Center, known for its cultural significance. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway also lies within reach, offering thrilling views and experiences. With a diverse range of restaurants and cafes nearby, this neighbourhood combines leisure with exciting exploration options for visitors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Palm Springs

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to lock in lower rates and benefit from improved availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and specific vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals may enforce a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can be acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unnecessary expenses and provides additional peace of mind in case something unexpected occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Palm Springs

The best value period to rent a car in and around Palm Springs is May, when both prices and demand are slightly low. April also offers decent value with average demand, making it a good option for those looking to avoid the crowds. June through August see a rise in prices, with August being the most expensive month and featuring slightly high demand. Meanwhile, March tends to be the busiest month, accompanied by average pricing and high demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.9°F (11.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
February	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
March	59.5°F (15.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
April	65.8°F (18.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	81.3°F (27.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
July	87.6°F (30.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
August	87.4°F (30.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly High
September	82.2°F (27.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
December	51.6°F (10.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average